Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson today welcomed the State Government’s move to give local Councils more authority to manage problem flying fox roosts in urban areas.
Ms Simpson said that a more streamlined approvals process would mean that local councils would be given the authority to manage flying fox roosts in urban areas without having to apply to the State Government for a damage mitigation permit.
“This is about cutting green tape to find more timely solutions for communities living with the challenge of flying fox colonies which have relocated into urban areas,” Ms Simpson said.
“We are committed to working cooperatively with local government and I believe this is a response to that and the feedback of communities.”
“Previously Councils have had to apply to the State Government to get approval prior to responding to flying fox issues,” Ms Simpson said.
“Cutting green tape like this will mean that local councils will be able to respond more rapidly and proactively to community concerns and take action to disperse or otherwise manage flying fox roosts according to an agreed Code of Practice.”
Ms Simpson said that the authority to take action on flying foxes where it involved non-lethal removal or modification of roosts and dispersal of animals would now rest with Council, but they would still need to comply with Commonwealth, state and local government laws.
“This Government is responding to community concerns and making it easier for councils to do the same,” Ms Simpson said.
